Diagnosis

Normal body temperature is 98.6˚F (37˚C). Hypothermia is diagnosed when body temperature reaches 95˚F (35˚C) or lower. Only a special rectal thermometer that reads low temperatures can confirm that someone has this condition.

Treatment

It is important to act quickly if you suspect that you or someone else has hypothermia:

Get to a warm, sheltered area.

Remove any wet clothing.

Use an electric blanket to warm the core of the body first—chest, neck, head, and groin.

If no electric blanket is available, use skin-to-skin contact under loose blankets or towels.

Give warm beverages to drink. Do not give alcoholic beverages.

Get medical attention as soon as possible.

A person with severe hypothermia may be unconscious and appear to have no pulse. Medical attention is important because, in some cases, people can be saved even though they appear dead.

Prevention

If you are planning to spend time outside, take the following precautions:

Be aware of the weather.

Wear the right clothing:

Hat, scarf, and mittens

Several layers of loose-fitting clothing

Water-resistant coat and shoes

Wind-resistant outer layer

Go inside when you are shivering or if you are wet.

Do not drink alcohol.

Eat well-balanced meals and stay hydrated.

Also, take special precautions with older adults, babies, and young children. If rooms are not kept warm enough, they can be affected by hypothermia even if they remain indoors.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.